The Best On-Camera Shotgun Microphone: Sony ECM-B1M

Finding a simple way to get great audio (especially in unpredictable environments) is always a challenge. The Sony ECM-B1M isn’t cheap, but it’s definitely the best overall video mic I’ve found and this video explains why!

Thank you @PeterLindgren1 for introducing me to the B1M. If you haven’t checked out Peter's channel, be sure to do so (plus you'll get to hear this mic in acton a lot)!

•Sony ECM-B1M:

•Rode Videomic NTG:

📼 More Video Mic Videos

🎙 Ever thought of starting your own podcast? Check out The Podcaster Playbook, my step-by-step DIY course to help you launch your show!

⏱ Chapter Markers:
0:00 - Will the B1M B The 1 For You?
0:59 - What About Smaller/Cheaper Mics?
1:38 - Sony vs. Rode Videomic NTG Features
3:49 - Sony Mic Controls
4:48 - Low Cut & Noise Cut Filters
6:13 - Directional Pickup Paterns
7:38 - Auto Audio (My Favorite Feature!)
9:46 - Pay Attention To Attenuation
11:04 - But Is It Really Worth The Price?
12:37 - Downsides To The Rode Videomic NTG
14:22 - Shock Mount Noise & Effectiveness
15:23 - Portability
16:06 - The Sony’s Biggest Issue: Availability

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– Who Am I? –

Hi! My name is Tom Buck, a lifelong A/V nerd and former high school Digital Media teacher of 11 years. I started my YouTube channel in 2017 as a project to share my enthusiasm for digital media and teaching others while having fun along the way.

New videos are uploaded every Thursday morning, and more often when possible!


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#microphones #videoproduction
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Episode 315: The Best On-Camera Microphone You Can Get?

[michaelpoczynek]

Small, no battery, no cables, quick setup, omni directional switch. I am sold! Ordered today! Thanks, Tom.

[danasuechilds]

My favorite thing about your videos is your word play...and of course your office which is the perfect balance of color.

[JustinHolder]

I've never seen a channel with such well thought out, yet still equally as visually interesting, as this one. Really appreciate all the time you invest in putting out such first class content!

[JulianOShea]

Great vid - I use the B1M for my field recordings and have been very happy with it. Super small and light and easy.

[Wbc]

the little intro card is really nice at: 0:40 . the entire video was awesome, keep up the great work

[JakeSloan]

ok just stop... I am so jealous of you patio area. I just picked up the ECM-B10M and freaking LOVE it!! Also CONGRATULATIONS on 100k!!!

[DashWithAshinCanada]

Tom why are you videos so perfect every time! I have been so busy so I am catching up on some videos now and I forgot how stunning your editing and content was. Always so good!

[BasicFilmmaker]

17:14 I am afraid to branch out so decided to try it tree times and see what happens. :)

[OriginaldoBo]

The most helpful video thus far! Been battling using the manual setting and switched to auto and booom was like magic sounds great. Mind Blown

[SimplyAubs]

Thanks for the explanation of this microphone! I wanted to brush it off when I first saw it...but I kept coming back to look at it. Not having any cables?! THAT is the biggest thing that attracts me!!!

[codylander]

You’ve won me over with this explanation. Idk why I wasn’t subscribed. Great work!

[jaimetan]

Nice one! Have you tried the newer, smaller B10 Sony mic and how does the sound compare? Will you do a comparison of these 2 mics too, pls?

[marsgizmo]

Great video, as usual! 👏😎
I literally ordered the ECM-B10 yesterday 😅 I wasn’t sure if I should get the B1M, but for more difficult places, I’m using a proper long shotgun.

[JACKnJESUS]

I missed the boat on this mic when I purchased a Sony A7RIV system. It was in stock then, but I wasn't really shooting video, so I passed on it. I regretted that a year later...and poof...they were gone...out of stock. I got lucky 9 months ago when one in mint condition popped up on KEH for 319. I jumped on it without hesitation...and it's been so nice to use. Like you said...set it and forget it. The sound is very clean.

[HomesickMac]

Great presentation of this mic. Not getting it because I'm saving up for the FX-3, whohoooo, but also because I already have a VideoMic NTG that I looove. You're the master of pin-pointing the possible issues and the real life examples are top notch. Oh, did I just notice the big 34" curved LG monitor in... vertical mode? Great solution for a long script I guess..

[tsunarun]

Nice review as Always Tom.
Which mic for short films this one or the Sennheiser mke 600.
Thanks Tom

[PeteBreen]

I just received the ECM-B10 and am blown away by it. Almost perfect out of the box.

[PaulFeinberg]

One day I would love to have one of these mics the K3M and auto mode is just gold! Sounds so good with no work! Great video

[TreasureCorals]

Great video. How would you mount a monitor on FX3 now that the hotshoe is taken by the mic. Is there a good way to position Atmos on it?

[djcook]

You made me buy a mkh 50 and now you’re making me buy a B1M!